In 2014, Apple acquired Beats for 3,000 million dollars, in one of the most important purchases in its history. This acquisition not only included the hardware products, but also the Beats Music platform, which would serve as the basis for the development of Apple Music. Since then, Apple has transformed Beats’ strategy, diversifying its offering beyond traditional over-ear headphones and expanding its catalog with more compact and modern models, adapted to current market trends.
This evolution has allowed Beats to maintain its essence, while benefiting from Apple’s innovation and technology, consolidating itself as a key option for music and design lovers.
Beats compact headphones: quality and design for athletes
Since Apple acquired Beats in 2014, the brand has expanded its offering of compact headphones, aimed especially at the sporting public. Below, we present some of the most outstanding models, available in the Apple Store.
Beats Flex
for alone 69.95 eurosthe Beats Flex are the brand’s most economical option. These wireless headphones are connected by a rubber Flex-Form cable that improves durability and comfort, in addition to incorporating controls to adjust volume, pause or change songs. Available in colors such as black, Yuzu yellow and flame blue, they stand out for their minimalist design and magnetic function that allows the headphones to be attached when they are not in use, avoiding loss. They are ideal for those looking for an affordable and practical device for sports.
Beats Studio Buds
With a price of 149.95 euros, the Beats Studio Buds offer a excellent value for money. These completely wireless headphones have active noise cancellation and surround sound that puts them close to premium models like the AirPods Pro. Available in a wide range of colors, they offer between 4 and 5 hours of autonomy per charge, expandable to 24 hours with its case, becoming an outstanding option for users who prioritize quality without compromising budget.
Beats Fit Pro
Designed specifically for athletes, the Beats Fit Pro (229.95 euros) have a in-ear design and a small bump that ensures a firm fit during intense activities. In addition, they offer sound quality and noise cancellation comparable to the AirPods Pro, along with a battery life of up to 6 hours. Available in colors like sage gray and charcoal purple, they’re ideal for long workouts or endurance tests.
Powerbeats Pro
As the brand’s most premium option, the Powerbeats Pro are designed for demanding athletes. Its design surrounds the ear, guaranteeing maximum support during any physical activity. With an autonomy of up to 9 hours and sound quality and noise cancellation comparable to the AirPods Pro, its price of 249.95 euros reflects its focus on performance and durability. Available in black, navy blue and even ivory, they are perfect for those looking for the best in sports headphones.
These models reflect the evolution of Beats under the leadership of Apple, combining cutting-edge technology with a clear focus on the needs of the most active users.
Beats Studio Buds+
The Beats Studio Buds + stand out for their powerful and balanced sound, with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) improved up to 1.6 times more effective and an ambient sound mode. They offer up to 36 hours of battery life with the charging case and have three times larger microphones for clear, crisp calls. They are compatible with Apple and Android devices.
They include custom two-layer drivers that deliver clear bass and minimal distortion. The earpads come in four sizes (XS, S, M and L), ensuring comfort and sound insulation for long sessions of use. In addition, its Fast Fuel fast charging technology allows up to 1 hour of playback with just 5 minutes of charging.
Beats Solo Buds
They are proposed as Beats’ most economical wireless option, with a price below €100, being the first to break that barrier. Available in four colors, including a red that turns transparent in the charging case, they will be available for €89.95 from June 2024.
The Beats Solo Buds They are the most affordable headphones from Beats, with a price of less than 100 euros. They offer a custom acoustic architecture, double-layer transducers to reduce distortion, and an ergonomic design with angled nozzles and laser perforations that improve bass tones and reduce pressure.
The most compact Beats charging case, it stands out for its lightweight design and transparent red finish. They provide up to 18 hours of autonomy and fast charging via USB-C, achieving one hour of use with just 5 minutes of charging. In addition, they include advanced microphones with algorithms to optimize calls and reduce environmental noise.
Beats on-ear headphones: iconic design and renowned quality
Although over-ear headphones are Beats’ most emblematic product, their relevance has decreased in recent years compared to the offering of compact models. Below, we review the two main options available in the Apple Store.
Beats Solo3 Wireless
By 199.95 eurosthe Beats Solo3 Wireless are the most affordable option within the brand’s on-ear headphones. Their supra-aural design, with over-the-ear pads, and wireless connection make them a versatile option.
However, the sound quality and noise cancellation do not live up to its price, as cactive cancellation beyond the basic insulation that pads provide. Available in black, red and rose gold, they are ideal for users looking for style and basic functionality.
Beats Studio3 Wireless
The Beats Studio3 Wireless represent the brand banner since its inception, with a price of 349.95 euros. This over-ear model features active noise cancellation and Apple’s W1 chip, which makes it easy to connect and switch between devices in the Apple ecosystem. Although they offer good sound quality and autonomy of up to 22 hours with active cancellation (40 without it), they lag behind alternatives such as the AirPods Max or the premium models from Sony and Bose. They can be purchased in a wide range of colors, from deep gray and matte black to white or blue.
While Beats on-ear headphones retain their iconic design, the features don’t always justify their price, especially considering the current competition in the high-end market.
Beats Solo 4
Launched in 2024, they are supra-aural headphones that go to a much higher level, both in features and price. These headphones boast the famous audio space that will immerse you in unprecedented immersive audio, with dynamic head movement tracking.
With autonomy of up to 50 hours of music playback, they will not leave you stranded at any time. Although it goes without saying, they are compatible with iOS and Android, and you can also use them with a USB-C cable to enjoy lossless audio.
The Beats Solo 4 They stand out for their lightweight and ergonomic design of 217 grams, with UltraPush pads that cover the entire ear and passively suppress noise. They are foldable, which makes them easy to transport. They feature an enhanced acoustic system with custom 40mm drivers and spatial audio that uses gyroscopes and accelerometers to adjust sound based on head movement.
Plus, they offer fast linking and network compatibility Look for for iOS and Android. They include a charging cable, 3.5 mm jack and a travel case.
